Dension ice-Link: Plus, Installation Manual

Dension Cradle & Ashtray Fabrication 

To mount the cradle in the ashtray location requires some patience.  If it’s late or you’re tired, save this next section 
until you’re well rested – Cutting the required 1/16” lip off the ashtray lid takes steady hands, if not, new ashtray 
lid. :~)   
 
I chose to mount the iPod in the ashtray for a clean look and to have the ability to remove the iPod and close the 
ashtray. Also, I wanted the iPod to lean towards the radio at a 45 degree angle.  To accomplish this you have to 
modify (cut) the cradle quite a bit. .  
 

1. 

Remove the chrome ashtray liner. (Pull the ashtray lid all the way open…then take it a nudge farther.  The 
ashtray liner should pop up).  

UPDATE: Take the cradle apart NOW

. 

(See detailed instructions below.) 

2.  Note the gear inside the ashtray.  Take the cradle and set it in the ashtray with the edge of the cradle resting 

against the gear.  This is the angle I wanted. Also note how the metal support (springy) gets in the way. Let’s 
get rid of it. 

3.  Take your side cutters and snip it out of the way…Carefully!   Set the cradle back in the ashtray.  Note how the 

door will not close without grinding some of the cradle away.  Let’s go… 

4.  Grind away about a 1/16” – 1/8” off the top of the cradle. Be sure to shape it the same. TAKE YOUR TIME 
5.  Once you have a good fit and closure you will realize you need some type of support below the cradle to have a 

snug fit.  Keep in mind you will be seating the iPod in the cradle and this requires a little force.  Without 
something supporting the cradle it will work loose over time…something you definitely DO NOT want to 
happen.  

6.  To create the support piece (½” acrylic / plastic (clear)) we need to measure the enclosure carefully.  

I must 

apologize here for not having the measurements to post… I lost them during clean up … I APOLOGIZE!

Anyway, it’s not too hard to make the 
measurements…just make sure you note the little tabs 
sticking out in the enclosure and especially the plastic 
light housing sticking up (drivers side). 

Be careful not to 

break the light housing, it’s what makes the cradle 
installation look so professional at night.

SUPPORT SHOWN AS IT MOUNTS IN CAR. 

TOP OF PHOTO = REAR OF CAR.  

ARROW DENOTES POINT TO PRY UP TO REMOVE.

7. 

Take your measurements and cut to rough size.  Once 
cut – Use the grinder to smooth the edges. I recommend 
fitting a piece with a trial and error approach until snug.  
Now place the cradle in the enclosure and mark for the 
cut out. If you do not cut out for the cradle THE LID 
WILL NOT CLOSE.  MARK THE SUPPORT SO IT 
FITS TIGHT AROUND THE CRADLE. 

Note the points 

where the cradle touches the support, we will epoxy 
these areas later. 

 REFERENCE PHOTOS BELOW.  

To remove the support for shaping, take a small screw driver and carefully pry up. 
 (In front of the ashtray light housing – towards the rear seat)..